A Journey to Rome: Giro Outlooks with Michael Storer & Mathys Rondel

© Chris Auld

It’s the eve of the Giro d’Italia, and in Bulgaria, the final touches are being made. A mix of anticipation and excitement is in the air. For Tudor Pro Cycling’s Michael Storer and Mathys Rondel, these hours before the start are precious.

07.05.2026

"You know what’s coming – three weeks of intensity – but right now, it’s calm. You just try to soak it in.“, Michael Storer reflects after a final training ride.

"You can plan, but the race has its own dynamics as well. The race only finishes in Rome"

Between lunch and a well-earned massage, the two riders fulfill their media obligations and share their thoughts on what lies ahead . For Michael, experience shapes his outlook. "Every Grand Tour is different. You can plan, but the race has its own dynamics as well. The race only finishes in Rome."

Mathys, on the other hand, is hungry for opportunity. "This is my first Giro, and I’m excited to see what I’m capable of. The Team is strong, and I want to contribute. I’ve been working hard for this chance."

This year, the Team will compete with Michael Storer as the GC leader and Mathys Rondel as co-leader and super-domestique for the mountain stages. Michael sees this as a strategic advantage: "Generally, I think it’s a benefit to take on the race with two riders able to contest the GC, it gives us the chance to go for the best possible as a Team and gives us tactical opportunities during the race."

Mathys agrees. "It’s motivating to have more than one card to play. We can adapt to how the race develops and support each other.“

© Chris Aulds

As the Giro approaches, their focus sharpens. There are more than 3,300 kilometers of racing  ahead, with a field of world-class riders. Anything can happen. „Regardless of the result, I’m happy with my race when I’m able to give my very best“, Michael reflects. “But of course the goal is clear: I want to improve my GC result from the past two editions, and just like every rider at this race, winning a stage is a big dream.“

Looking ahead, Mathys is optimistic about his role  at this year’s Giro d’Italia: “The Giro is a huge step, and I’m here to learn and to fight. I’m excited for the mountain stages, the collaboration with Michael and achieving a strong result for the Team. The 42km TT promises to be a demanding test as well.“

As the sun sets in Bulgaria and at the shore of the Black Sea, the riders enjoy some final moments of rest, knowing that tomorrow, a long and hard journey to Rome will begin.